BUYERS

A Word About Schools Douglas County Schools Good schools are an important part of every community. While we are proud that our area schools enjoy superior scores in standardized tests, that is not necessarily what makes our schools superior. Most standardized tests measure the temporary retention of low-level skills and soon-to-be-forgotten facts. The tests are timed and multiple choice, which means that students don’t have the chance to express careful, reasoned thinking. Research confirms that some very talented, hardworking students may do poorly on standardized tests, while some superb test takers tend to think superficially. Moreover, terrific teaching that helps kids become critical, curious, creative thinkers may cause scores to drag because it’s not necessarily aimed at test-taking. What, then, can be used as a marker of good schools? One answer is size. For many reasons, smaller schools/class sizes are often better. Another answer is community/parental involvement. The schools worth bragging about are those where students feel they are part of a caring community, where even kindergartners get the chance to tell stories and teachers create democratic classrooms so that kids learn how to make good decisions. If teachers make sure students understand ideas instead of just memorizing facts, people should clamor to live in that district. We invite you to visit our schools, to talk with the teachers, and speak with other parents about what they like and dislike. And after you settle into the area, we encourage you to become an involved participant in your child’s education. We are certain you will notice a positive outcome. For information regarding Douglas County schools, click here Douglas County Schools Other School District links: Cherry Creek Public Schools Littleton Public Schools Aurora Public Schools Jefferson Public Schools